Running Shoes, Apparel and Gear The 10 Best Running Tights for Men of 2023 Our top pick, Nike’s Pro Warm Tights, have ribbed panels for extra mobility By Ravi Davda Ravi Davda LinkedIn Ravi Davda is a certified personal trainer with nearly 10 years of experience in the fitness and wellness industry. Ravi has worked with a range of personal training clients both in-person and online. Learn about our editorial process Updated on February 13, 2023 Reviewed Verywell Fit articles are reviewed by nutrition and exercise professionals. Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more. by John Honerkamp Reviewed by John Honerkamp LinkedIn Twitter John Honerkamp is an RRCA and USATF-certified running coach, celebrity marathon pacer, and recognized leader in the New York City running community. Learn about our Review Board Fact checked Verywell Fit content is rigorously reviewed by a team of qualified and experienced fact checkers. Fact checkers review articles for factual accuracy, relevance, and timeliness. We rely on the most current and reputable sources, which are cited in the text and listed at the bottom of each article. Content is fact checked after it has been edited and before publication. Learn more. by Rich Scherr Fact checked by Rich Scherr LinkedIn Twitter Rich Scherr is a seasoned journalist who has covered technology, finance, sports, and lifestyle. Learn about our editorial process Print We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Verywell Fit / Brian Kopinski Running with tights can make all the difference when it comes to being comfortable during cold winter runs. Besides holding in heat, compression tights can even help you better understand your body’s position and movement. “My form seems to feel a bit more controlled and my perception is that I am running faster,” says Frankie Ruiz, certified running coach and founder of the Run Club Network and WE RUN MIAMI. Men’s running tights can cost between $25 and $130. Some of the more expensive options can offer thermal protection against cold weather, better durability, and built-in storage for water bottles and other essentials. But if you’ve never worn running tights, you may want to test out a budget-friendlier option first. Then, you can stock up on your favorite, less expensive pair in different colors. When shopping for running tights, consider the materials they’re made from, whether they’re moisture-wicking, and how many pockets they have. We researched dozens of running tights for men and assessed each pair based on fit, comfort, weather protection, price, and more. We also consulted two running coaches to get their expert opinions on the most important features to look for in running tights for men. Below, find the best 10 pairs on the market. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Nike Pro Warm Tights at Dick's Jump to Review Best Budget: BALEAF Men's Compression Pants Running Tights at Amazon Jump to Review Best Compression: New Balance Comp Tight at Newbalance.com Jump to Review Best for Cold Weather: Brooks Men's Momentum Thermal Running Tights at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Hot Weather: Adidas Short Tights at Amazon Jump to Review Best With Pockets: Ultimate Direction Running Tights at Amazon Jump to Review Best 3/4 Length: Nike Men’s 3/4 Tights at Amazon Jump to Review Most Comfortable: Saucony Bell Lap Tights at Amazon Jump to Review Best Reflective: ASICS Tight at Amazon Jump to Review Best Moisture-Wicking: Under Armour Leggings at Amazon Jump to Review In This Article Expand Our Picks How We Selected What to Look For FAQ Why Trust Verywell Fit Best Overall Nike Pro Warm Tights 4.8 Nike View On Dick's View On Nike.com Pros Wide range of sizes Made with recycled materials Ribbed panels provide extra mobility Cons Only one pocket Nike’s Pro Warm Tights are our top overall pick because they’re durable, with thoughtful design elements that set them apart. They have a wide elastic waistband for a close fit and are made with recycled polyester that comes from plastic bottles. We like the wide range of sizes, which spans from small to 4XL (including tall sizes). Ribbed panels on the lower back, inseam, and inner ankle provide extra mobility during your runs. Plus, the mesh panels around each knee stretch easily for added comfort. Nike’s Pro Warm Tights are also sweat-wicking and machine washable. But unlike other options on our list, they only have one pocket—although it can fit your phone. Choose from four neutral colors. Price at time of publication: $58 Materials: Recycled polyester (plastic bottles), polyester, spandex | Inseam: 26.5 inches | Pockets: 1 | Fit: Compression | Sizes: S to 4XL Tall | Reflective: No Best Budget BALEAF Men's Compression Pants Running Tights Amazon View On Amazon Pros Quick-drying Breathable Two large side pockets Cons No reflective details If you’re looking for men’s running tights on a budget, we recommend this pair from BALEAF. We love that they’re not only great for running, but can also be worn at the gym, in yoga classes, or even while walking your dog. These tights are made from a quick-drying, stretchy, and breathable blend of nylon and spandex. They also have two large side pockets—one on each leg—to store all of your essentials. Even though there are no reflective details on these running tights, there are eight colors to pick from. There’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can shop confidently. Price at time of publication: $26 Materials: Nylon, spandex (solid colors), cotton, polyester, spandex (charcoal color) | Inseam: 26.4-28 inches | Pockets: 2 | Fit: Fitted | Sizes: S to 2XL | Reflective: No Best Compression New Balance Comp Tight New Balance View On Newbalance.com Pros Close fit prevents chafing Moisture-wicking Mid-rise waistband Cons No reflective details No pockets Looking for the best compression running tights? We recommend New Balance’s Comp Tight. Designed for athletic performance, we love that these tights feel like a second layer of skin. This helps prevent chafing as you push yourself on longer runs. They’re also quick-drying and moisture-wicking, so you’ll feel cool and comfortable from the start of your workout to the end. And a mid-rise waistband offers a close fit that’s supportive, without feeling suffocating. But these do not have pockets or reflective details, so they are best for daytime outdoor runs. Price at time of publication: $45 Materials: Polyester, spandex | Inseam: Not listed | Pockets: None | Fit: Compression | Sizes: S to 3XL | Reflective: No The Best Compression Running Shorts to Enhance Your Muscle Stability Best for Cold Weather Brooks Men's Momentum Thermal Running Tights Brooks Running View On Amazon View On Brooksrunning.com View On REI Pros Thick thermal fabric Made with recycled materials Reflective details Cons Expensive Only come in one color When the temperatures drop, we recommend Brooks’ Momentum Thermal Tight. The thick thermal fabric is made with recycled materials to create tights that are insulating, but also quick-drying and moisture-wicking. If you’re someone who tends to overheat while running (even in the winter), these can help regulate heat and airflow to keep you feeling comfortable. Unlike our top overall pick, Nike’s Pro Warm Tights, these running tights are fitted and not compression-fit. This means they’re looser but still will gently hug your body. We also like that there are reflective details on each of the two side pockets and the logo. Even though they’re on the expensive side, we think these tights are worth the investment because they're thicker and better insulated than other options on our list. However, they’re only available in black—so if you’re looking for color with your running tights, this may not be the right pair for you. Price at time of publication: $95 Materials: Polyester, spandex | Inseam: 29 inches | Pockets: 2 | Fit: Fitted | Sizes: XS to 2XL | Reflective: Yes The Best Cold Weather Running Gear, According to a Running Coach Best for Hot Weather Adidas Techfit Allover Print Training Short Tights Amazon View On Amazon View On Dick's View On Adidas.com Pros Wear alone or as a base layer Unique design Anti-odor Cons No reflective details No pockets For running in hot weather, Adidas’ Techfit Training Short Tights are our top pick. While they’re only available in one design, we love how unique it is. These short tights can be worn alone or as a base layer, giving you the option to add or remove layers during your warm-ups and runs. And the anti-odor, moisture-wicking fabric won’t hold onto unpleasant smells when you sweat. We also like that these short tights are made from recycled materials. Unfortunately, they don’t have any pockets or reflective details, but they are machine washable. They’re available in a range of sizes too—from small to 3XL. Price at time of publication: $19 Materials: Polyester, elastane | Inseam: Not listed | Pockets: None | Fit: Compression | Sizes: S to 3XL | Reflective: No Best With Pockets Ultimate Direction Men's Hydro Running Tights Ultimate Direction View On Amazon View On Ultimatedirection.com Pros Removable water bottle storage Hidden waist adjuster Won’t ride up Cons Expensive Only come in one color Runners who need extra storage will appreciate all of the pockets in Ultimate Direction’s Hydro Tight. Although they’re the most expensive pair on our list and only come in black, they’re packed with useful features. These tights come with two 300-milliliter water bottles that slip securely into bounce-free pockets, so you can easily fill up before you head out on your run. You can also remove the water bottle storage system if you’d rather travel lightly. We also like that there are two additional side pockets, a front pocket, and a back center pocket to store essentials. Plus, a hidden rigid waist adjuster offers a customizable fit, so you can find the right level of stability and comfort (and feel confident that your tights won’t ride up). Similar to New Balance’s Comp Tight, these men’s running tights are compression-fit, so they’ll feel supportive from the first wear. Price at time of publication: $130 Materials: Polyester, spandex | Inseam: 28 inches | Pockets: 6 | Fit: Compression | Sizes: S to XL | Reflective: No The Best Running Shorts With Pockets, According to a Running Coach Best 3/4 Length Nike Pro Dri-Fit Men’s 3/4 Tights Amazon View On Amazon View On Dick's View On Academy.com Pros Budget-friendly Breathable mesh Made with recycled materials Cons No reflective details No pockets With breathable mesh panels to keep you cool, Nike’s Pro Dri-Fit Tights are our pick for the best 3/4-length pair. The lightweight material allows you to move freely, even during long-distance runs. And we like that they’re made with recycled materials, like Brooks’ Momentum Thermal Tight. These running tights are also sweat-wicking and machine washable. Available in sizes ranging from small to 4XL, plus tall sizes, there are inseam lengths for every runner. However, they don’t have any pockets or reflective details. Choose from six colors, including bright red and royal blue. Price at time of publication: $30 Materials: Polyester, spandex | Inseam: 32.25 to 35.75 inches | Pockets: None | Fit: Compression | Sizes: S to 4XL Tall | Reflective: No Most Comfortable Saucony Bell Lap Tights Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Saucony.com Pros Internal drawcord Reflective logo and details Made with recycled materials Cons Only come in one color Saucony’s Bell Lap Tight is our pick for the most comfortable men’s running tights. Made with recycled materials, they have an adjustable drawcord that makes it easy to adjust the fit. There are multiple reflective details for added visibility during low-light conditions, which is ideal if you run outdoors at night or in the early hours of the morning. The downside is that they’re only available in black. (If you’re looking for a wide range of colors, we suggest Nike’s Pro Dri-Fit 3/4 Tights.) But these tights are machine washable and have two pockets—one with a zipper and one drop-in—so you can easily store your valuables. A shorts version is also available. Price at time of publication: $80 Materials: Nylon, recycled nylon, spandex | Inseam: 27 inches | Pockets: 2 | Fit: Fitted | Sizes: S to 3XL | Reflective: Yes Best Reflective ASICS Men's LITE-Show Tight Amazon View On Amazon View On Asics.com Pros Sweat-resistant phone pocket Adjustable drawcord Breathable mesh Cons Only comes in one color May not be warm enough for cold weather We recommend Asics’ Lite-Show Tight for runners who need reflective tights for their outdoor routes. Instead of just one reflective logo, these tights have details all around the thigh and calf to offer better visibility in low-light conditions. Mesh vents add ventilation for improved breathability. And we like that there’s an adjustable waist drawcord—similar to Saucony’s Bell Lap Tight—so you can find the right fit. Like some of our other top picks, these tights are only available in black and have just one pocket—however, it’s sweat-resistant and deep enough to hold your phone. It’s also worth noting that the lightweight fabric may not be warm enough for running in cold weather, so if you're looking for tights to pair with your favorite shoes for walking on ice, you might consider a different pair. Price at time of publication: $70 Materials: Polyester, spandex | Inseam: Not listed | Pockets: 1 | Fit: Light compression | Sizes: XS to 2XL | Reflective: Yes The Best Reflective Running Gear of 2023 Best Moisture-Wicking Under Armour Men's ColdGear Leggings Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Dick's Pros Wide range of colors and sizes Dual-layer fabric Four-way stretch Cons No reflective details Only one pocket While plenty of tights on our list are made with quick-drying material, Under Armour’s ColdGear Leggings are our recommendation for the pair that wicks away moisture the best. The dual-layer fabric is brushed on the inside to keep you warm, and silky on the outside to help sweat evaporate. We also like that, unlike other tights on our list, these come in a wide range of sizes (including tall sizes) and bright colors. And the material has four-way stretch, so it will move with you as you run or sprint. An anti-odor treatment prevents unpleasant smells from building up. Just note that these ColdGear Leggings only have one drop-in pocket, and no reflective details. Price at time of publication: $55 Materials: Polyester, elastane | Inseam: 28 inches | Pockets: 1 | Fit: Compression | Sizes: XS to 4XL Tall | Reflective: No How We Selected the Best Running Tights for Men To choose the top running tights for men, we first consulted Frankie Ruiz, certified running coach and founder of the Run Club Network and WE RUN MIAMI, and Alan Ladd, a running and nutrition coach, for their expert advice on which features to look for in the best pairs. We also spoke with them about how running tights should fit and what to wear underneath running tights. Then, we researched dozens of men’s running tights from the most popular and trusted brands. To select our top picks, we paid special attention to the materials, reflective details, number of pockets, fit, comfort, cost, and more. What to Look for in Running Tights for Men Material Men’s running tights are usually made from a combination of materials, including polyester, spandex, elastane, nylon, and cotton. Synthetic fabrics, like polyester and nylon, are commonly used because they’re durable, lightweight, and breathable. Adding spandex or elastane makes running tights flexible, so they’ll move with you. Moisture-Wicking “Definitely look for moisture-wicking, especially if you tend to sweat a lot and plan to wear [your tights] in more temperate conditions,” Ruiz says. Most runners prefer tights that are moisture-wicking because they push sweat to the outer layer of material so it can evaporate, which helps the tights dry quickly. The result is a chafe-free, comfortable run. Under Armour’s ColdGear Leggings are our pick for the best moisture-wicking pair on the market. Weather Protection In colder temperatures, consider wearing thicker running tights that will insulate and retain warmth, like Brooks’ Momentum Thermal Tight. Shorter or lightweight options, like Adidas’ Techfit Training Short Tights, are better for warmer weather. Also, if you often run in the rain, look for a quick-drying pair that can stand up to the elements. Fit To get a more comfortable fit, look for features like an elastic waistband and an internal drawcord, which will help you adjust your tights. It’s also important to look at the inseam length to ensure your tights are the right length—taller runners need longer inseams. Make sure your tights are actually tight: “It’s best to get a good tight fit all the way up the leg because any loose fitting area will flap around, reducing efficiency and generally being annoying,” Ladd says. Pockets If you like to keep your essentials on you while you run, you’ll need tights with plenty of pockets. Each pair varies—some of our top picks don’t have any, while Ultimate Direction’s Hydro Tight has six. A pocket that’s large enough for your phone is also a plus. “Depending on your phone size, you may either be able to squeeze your phone into one of these pockets. Or, some tights have a larger pocket on the quad area or offset to the outside of the quad,” Ruiz explains. Compression All of the tights on our list are either fitted or compression fit. Both will fit you closely, but there’s a slight difference. Fitted running tights gently hug your body, while compression tights will be snugger. It all comes down to individual preference, and which fit feels most comfortable to you. Frequently Asked Questions Should men wear tights for running? Ultimately, it’s up to you. Some runners like having an extra layer, while others prefer to wear pants or shorts instead. In cold weather, running tights can keep you warm without adding extra bulk. And when it’s hot out, short tights can feel thinner and more breathable than traditional running shorts. If you’ve never worn running tights before but want to give them a try, consider investing in a budget-friendly option to see if they’re for you, like BALEAF’s Running Tights. How should running tights fit? Running tights should fit closely, from your waist all the way down to your ankles. If they’re loose, they may move around and distract you while you’re running. Our top picks are either fitted or compression-fit—neither is better for running, so it’s a matter of personal preference. Our best overall pick, Nike’s Pro Warm Tights, is our recommendation if you’re looking for a compressive fit, while we like Saucony’s Bell Lap Tight for a fitted option.Running tights should never be so tight that they feel uncomfortable. If this is the case, try ordering one size up from your usual. “You never want to restrict blood flow or have such a tight fit that comfort is sacrificed,” Ruiz says. What do men wear under running tights? Some runners wear nothing underneath their tights. “I generally think this is inadvisable because there is no support inside running tights, unlike the mesh you can get inside running shorts,” Ladd says. This may also lead to chafing, he adds. We recommend wearing your normal workout underwear under running tights, or a thin pair of half-tight compression shorts. How much do quality men’s running tights cost? High-quality running tights for men can cost anywhere between $26 and $130. It’s worth noting that more expensive options can have additional features like thermal protection, reflective details, built-in water bottle storage, and extra pockets. Cheaper tights are easier to stock up on, but may not be as durable over time. Our best overall pick, Nike’s Pro Warm Tights, cost $50 when we published this list. For a more budget-friendly option, we recommend BALEAF’s Running Tights, which are often available for under $30. Why Trust Verywell Fit As a certified personal trainer and health and fitness writer, Ravi Davda understands how important quality product recommendations can be. He recommends products that are reliable, comfortable, and genuinely well-reviewed by those who’ve tried them. The 15 Best Running Leggings That a Running Coach Recommends See Our Editorial Process Meet Our Review Board Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback? Other Helpful Report an Error Submit